More and more people all over the world are getting into standup paddleboarding. It may be hard to understand why when you have no idea what the sport is all about. Also, check out the best fishing kayak budget.
But if you are interested, here is everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
What is Standup Paddleboarding?
Standup paddleboarding is a water activity that involves a board and a paddle. It is also known as standup paddling, SUP or standup paddle surfing. Participants paddle while standing upright on the paddleboard—hence the name.
Like many other water board sports, SUP is believed to have originated in Hawaii. At first, it was a variation of surfing. But it has grown to become a well-known sport. Now, there are different types of standup paddling.
These types of SUP guide paddlers when choosing a paddleboard. Learn more about what fishing kayak is better for a beginner.
So take a look.
Types of Standup Paddleboarding
1. SUP Yoga
Yoga is a way for you to practice mindfulness, become more flexible and improve your mental health, among other benefits.
To get even more out of this exercise, some people do the poses on yoga paddle boards in the water. While it can be challenging, the results are worth it.
2. Leisure SUP
This is the one that most beginners and families love. As the name suggests, it involves paddling casually. All you need is a paddleboard and body water.
People do it to get fresh air, exercise and just enjoy the sun. With the huge multi-person SUP boards, families or friends can cruise together.
3. SUP Racing
If you like to take the excitement to the next level, racing would be right for you. You can easily find a SUP racing event in your local area. You don’t have to win the first time. Having fun is what matters. SUP racing paddle boards are typically long (12’6 or 14’) and narrow. For beginners, controlling them might be a little hard. Learn more about intex challenger k1 kayak review.
4. SUP Touring
5. SUP Fishing
Benefits of Standup Paddle Boarding
a. Better Balance
b. Less Stress
c. Fit Physique
d. Healthy Heart
How to Get Started
After seeing people enjoy themselves on SUP boards and the benefits, you must be dying to start. You’ll be relieved to know that it is quite easy and not as expensive.
What You Need
Paddleboard: while there are some crazy expensive boards out there, you can start with an affordable one. SUPs are classified into two major categories, solid and inflatable. The inflatable paddleboards (iSUPs) are cheaper and more durable. The solid ones are superior in performance.
Paddle: add 4 – 7 inches to your height to get the paddleboard length that is right for you. The material will depend on your budget. An aluminum paddle would be okay for a beginner.
Leash: newbies and pros alike need to have a leash at all times when paddling. It keeps your SUP from floating away when you fall off.
PFD: a personal floatation device is required in most states when standup paddleboarding. You don’t have to wear a jacket. Manufacturers now make waist PFDs let you paddle freely.
Standup paddleboarding may be relatively new but it is already a popular sport. It is exciting—but that is not the only reason. People have discovered how beneficial it is to their health. And scientific studies have confirmed these benefits. To join the SUP community, you only need a board, paddle, leash, and a PFD. Ask a friend to teach you or get beginner lessons from YouTube. It is as simple as that!
